You are here:

KOH (Potassium Hydroxide) Preparation

Exam Overview

The KOH (potassium hydroxide) preparation is used to find out
whether a fungal infection is present on the skin.

A sample of skin is taken by lightly scraping the infected
area.

The skin sample is placed on a slide with KOH solution. This solution slowly dissolves the skin cells but not the fungus cells.
The fungus cells can then be seen with a microscope. Color stains may be used
so that the fungus is easier to see.

Why It Is Done

If you have patches of skin that are itchy, red, or scaly with
bumps that look like blisters on the edges, a KOH test may be done to find out whether you
have a fungal infection of the skin.

Results

Findings of a KOH test may include the following:

Normal

No fungi are present in the skin samples.

Abnormal

Fungi are present in the skin samples.

What To Think About

A doctor may be able to know if you have a
fungal infection by the appearance of the rash and may not need to do a KOH
test.

If the KOH preparation shows that you do not have a
fungal infection, other tests may be done to figure out the cause of
the skin problem.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use.
How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.